The configuration detailing how a wheel is secured to a vehicle’s hub is a critical specification. This measurement, often expressed in millimeters or inches, defines the circle formed by the lug bolts and their placement on the wheel hub. As an example, a 5×115 measurement indicates a five-lug configuration with those lugs arranged on a 115mm diameter circle.
Adherence to specified dimensions is essential for wheel compatibility and safe vehicle operation. Employing wheels with an incorrect configuration can lead to vibration, structural damage to both the wheel and the vehicle, and potential wheel detachment, significantly increasing the risk of accidents. Throughout automotive history, specific configurations have been standardized by manufacturers to ensure interchangeability and safety within their respective vehicle lines.